Saudi Arabia recalled its ambassador, gave the Canadian ambassador 24 hours to leave and froze new business and investment deals.

The Maldives, which enjoys a close relationship with the oil-rich Arab state, condemned Canada for its interference.

“The provocation by any foreign state hindering the respect for sovereignty and the basic principles of non-interference in the internal affairs of other states is a clear violation of the international conventions and norms of conduct between states,” it said.